Vedder + Dylan = Perpetual Groove

I liked the bass. That stood out a lot. The singing sounds very ’90s — very dated — and it’s also a little monotone. It was emotional, so that makes it seem like the artist was really into what he was writing or singing about. The singing style sounded like a cross between Bob Dylan and Eddie Vedder. The music has a “live” feel. I don’t know if there was some organ or keyboard in the background, but it sounded like they were really into it, which is good. I think it would be marketable. I would have to see what the band members look like in order to give you an honest opinion, but I can imagine [it’s] mostly white guys…it reeked of “whiteness.”

Artist: MC Faith B

Song: “I Gotcha Back” (from the CD Rollin With the Lord)

Heard By: Nathan Gulick, North Park

He had all the charisma of a high school gymnasium inspirational speaker. It’s reminiscent of Hulk Hogan’s album. “Nobody will hurt you/ I’m here to protect” — those are very reassuring lyrics. I felt he was tough, he was in command. He could lead me down the righteous path. I could step away from the “game” — I’m quoting from the song — step away from the drugs. The beat was repetitive, and I think it was repetitive to drive home the point that he walks with Jesus. Jesus’ beats are sure and steady — they don’t falter. If you are earnestly into positive thinking, without irony, you will enjoy this song.

Artist: Dr. Popsicle and the Hair-Painted Opera House

Song: “The Fall Chandelier” (from the CD The Rubber Tree)

Heard By: Sasha Syeed, Clairemont

It didn’t offend me outright, which is already awesome. I liked the production — it had creaky, echo-y, lo-fi production. It might have reminded of what I heard from that guy [in] Iron and Wine. [It was] lo-fi/indie/folk/pop/acoustic. The singer’s echo-y, mellow country drawl was like that My Morning Jacket guy, Jim James. I heard him say, “follow me,” I believe. I don’t remember anything else from the lyrics. There was some other stuff decorating the track…like a far off E-bow or something. I could see it doing well locally and maybe regionally. If the guy opened for the right bands, I could see him skyrocketing towards his dreams.